R. Christopher Teichler, Composer: Music

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I originally wrote this for my church choir. In writing new music for this old and familiar hymn text, I hoped to give a completely different meaning and context. There are so many ways to meditate on what these words mean, and I wanted to create a more reflective and reverent interpretation.

What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.

Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer!
Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer!

Our we weak and heavy and laden, cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge- take it to the Lord in prayer!
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He'll take and shield thee; thou wilt find a solace there.

- Joseph M. Scriven (1819 - 1886)